One of the more memorable moments came when a male lion moved past the camp waterhole at first light, calling loudly as he walked. Black-backed jackals followed closely behind, investigating and scenting where he had paused briefly before continuing.
Early in the month three lionesses were observed stalking zebra near Mogobe wa bo Mothosi, working carefully through the grass with clear intent. Shortly afterwards, the resident pride was located mating, with continued activity suggesting strong territorial stability in the area. Later in the month, two intruding males were also found mating near the Wildlife waterhole, adding further pressure to an already active landscape.
Towards the latter part of the month, another well-coordinated hunt was observed during an evening drive, with lions positioning themselves carefully before initiating an ambush. Although the full outcome was not seen, the build-up showed clear coordination and intent.
Cheetah activity showed a noticeable increase through the month. A male was located along Road Twelve towards Baines’ Baobabs, while another strong sighting involved an adult male actively chasing springbok across the open pan, moving from the western side towards Middle Road. These sightings suggested increased movement and growing comfort within the area.
Leopard activity remained present, though more subtle. Tracks were noted along Baobab Loop and northwest of staff housing, before a male was eventually located resting on the road to camp north of HATAB Two. The sighting was brief but clear, offering a good visual after several indications of movement in the area.
Open plains, new life and the rhythm of Nxai
General game viewing remained a highlight, with strong concentrations of herbivores across the pan.
Large dazzles of zebra, groups of blue wildebeest and substantial numbers of springbok dominated the open areas, often seen alongside giraffe and impala. Elephants were present in smaller herds and as lone bulls, spending much of their time feeding within the thickets before moving out towards water sources.
One of the standout moments of the month was a zebra birth witnessed during a morning drive, adding a clear reminder of the productivity of the season. Ostrich breeding was also notable, with a flock observed moving with approximately 22 chicks across the pan.
Hippo activity remained unusual but consistent, with two males seen on multiple occasions around Pipeline Mogobe, and another recorded near the south camp gate.
Smaller mammals added variety to drives, with regular sightings of bat-eared foxes, black-backed jackals, scrub hare and ground squirrel, particularly towards Baines’ Baobabs. African wild cat was seen actively hunting helmeted guineafowl near HATAB Two, while porcupine activity was noted in camp during the evenings.
Reptile sightings were strong, including leopard tortoise, marsh terrapin, boomslang, black mamba and rock monitor. Insect life was equally active, with mantids, beetles, butterflies and termites present across the area.
Birding remained particularly rewarding, with both resident and migratory species active. Secretarybird, kori bustard, northern black korhaan and red-crested korhaan were seen regularly, alongside raptors such as martial eagle, tawny eagle and bateleur. Summer visitors including European bee-eaters, carmine bee-eaters and rollers added further diversity.
Evenings on the pan
Evenings provided a different perspective of Nxai Pan, with time spent around the firepit and the sounds of the bush carrying across the open landscape. On clearer nights, constellations such as Orion, Gemini and the Southern Cross were visible, alongside bright stars including Sirius and Canopus.
The landscape remained in excellent condition, with open grasslands, scattered woodland and baobab islands all supporting strong wildlife movement. The combination of fresh grazing and open visibility continued to create productive guiding conditions throughout the month.
